Mask

Item number Eh122 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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Data
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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Mask representing a monkey painted red overall with yellow, white, and black eyebrows, protruding eyes with a crescent-shaped slit under each, a flat low relief nose, twelve upper white teeth, no lower jaw. Remnants of plant fibre attached to nails in tufts along the forehead and upper jaw.

History Of Use

Used in ceremony of healing during dances involving petitioning of supernatural spirits to achieve benefits for the patient. It is believed that afflictions and diseases are caused by these spirits, or demons, and that cures may be effected by ritual specialists

Iconographic Meaning

Red colouring is representative of bloodthirsty men and also of a demon, known as Riri Yakka, associated with fevers and stomach pain, and injuries causing a flow of blood.